N.L. celebrates 20 years of oil production from Hibernia

First oil production began at Hibernia 20 years ago today on Nov. 17, 1997. - File photo

It was 20 years ago today, Nov. 17, 1997, that first oil began to flow from the Hibernia oil field off Newfoundland and Labrador.

Natural Resources Minister Siobhan Coady offered her congratulations to the project’s partners in the House of Assembly on Thursday, including the Hibernia Management and Development Company Ltd. and its lead owner ExxonMobil Canada.

“Employing over 1,500 highly skilled professionals in a variety of professions, Hibernia continues to have a significant and positive impact on the industry and our economy,” Coady said.

“It was the reason that the Bull Arm site was built and remains a world-class fabrication facility. And every year since, Hibernia has contributed millions of dollars to the economy through service contracts and sub-contract employment.”

Last year, Hibernia achieved the milestone of having produced one billion barrels of oil from the field.

“From research and development at Memorial, investment in the arts at the Newfoundland Symphony Orchestra, to support for our natural history at the Hibernia Interpretation Centre in Conception Bay South, Hibernia is not just an oil producer but an iconic Newfoundland and Labrador institution,” Coady added.